2022 ARENI
In the high elevation province of Vayots Dzor, the indigenous Areni grape thrives in rich volcanic and limestone soils.
Our Areni wine expresses the unique characteristics of this ancient variety with the focus and purity that modern winemaking techniques provide.
TASTING NOTES
Displaying a ruby garnet hue, the wine opens with complex and expressive aromas of strawberry, pomegranate, and dark cherries layered with notes of fresh violet, rose petal, and baking spice. Medium-bodied with bright yet well-integrated acidity, supported by silky but firm tannins. Clean, persistent, and elegantly spicy, the wine’s fruity core lingers alongside accents of earthy minerality, culminating in a lengthy finish.
94 POINTS
“A thrilling wine, with wild strawberry and vanilla cream, dotted with spiced red tea, tomato leaf, and red beets. Acidity reigns supreme; lifting rose petals and mulled raspberries to a beautifully balanced level. Sensational.”
- Meridith May, Tasting Panel Magazine
HISTORICAL ACCOLADES
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95pts Tasting Panel Magazine
93pts Jeb Dunnuck
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95pts Tasting Panel Magazine
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Top 100 Wine of the Year, Wine Enthusiast
92pts, Wine Enthusiast
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92pts Wine Enthusiast
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92pts Wine Enthusiast
WINE DETAILS
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The 2022 growing season in Vayots Dzor unfolded under favorable conditions, with a mild winter leading to early budbreak, followed by a long, dry summer with stable weather patterns during flowering and veraison. With no significant spring frosts and a light hail event in June, disease pressure remained minimal. The diurnal temperature variation proved excellent for preserving bright acidity while promoting full phenolic ripeness. An earlier-than-average start to the harvest season yielded wines with vibrant aromatics, balanced acidity, and supple, ripe tannins.
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Region: Vayots Dzor, Armenia
Elevation: 4,520-4,724ft (1,378-1,440m)
Slopes: 20-30%
Vine age: 10 years
Soil: mineral rich volcanic soils with limestone deposits
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Hand-harvested
October 5
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Varietal Composition:
90% Areni
10% Kakhet
100% stainless steel fermented and aged
Bottled unfined, June 2024
